Getting Started with Latin

Getting Started with Latin by William E. Linney

I think the study of Latin is an eminently practical thing to do. It expands the mind so much. A person who is even passingly familiar with Latin is that much more literate in English. It connects one to history in an intimate way, it teaches one all kinds of word roots that expand one's English vocabulary exponentially. It is great for those who are interested in science or learning other romance languages or languages that are inflected like German or Russian. It teaches the role of words and the structure of sentences (otherwise known as grammar) that reveals in a wonderful way the logical methodology we humans naturally developed to communicate efficiently. Because of its logic and structure it teaches analytical thinking. One can feel one's neurons connecting differently as one studies! And for me, as a Catholic, it is the language of my Church and that makes it that much more precious to me. It is the language of Gregorian chant and prayer and sacred song.

I only just got this book, so maybe I shouldn't be gushing over it just yet, but I love it! It is the best, simplest, most user friendly intro to the Latin language I have come across in my 14 plus years of homeschooling.

It is beautiful in its direct, clearly explained, incremental, engaging approach. One book does it all. No need for anything else, though the author does provide some aids on his website.

This is definitely a strewing kind of book. You can pick it up and entertain yourself for a few minutes by reading the very simple explanations and exercises. The exercises are very well done, never overwhelming and perfectly reinforce the little lesson just taught. Next day you can pick it up and read a little more. It is perfect for reading together with someone and then doing the little exercises together.

This is just a simple intro, just a dip your toe in the water of Latin, but even if this is as far you go in learning Latin it will still be valuable to your every day life. Or it might be the perfect stepping stone into a more intensive study of the language. Either way, it is a gem!